For an additional enhancement, adding some color to the crystal award can give it that extra touch of class. Different crystal color options are available, or a simple clear crystal can even be glazed. Adding a base or parts of a different color, texture or even a different material is also possible.
Awards are meant to be special and are something that should last a lifetime. They should be something that signifies a prestigious occasion and should look the part. A Crystal award should be something that you will be proud of and will have a place of honor in your home, not only for a few weeks, but for a lifetime.
With present technology, many shapes and forms are possible in crystal. Complicated designs such as sporting objects and figurines, and nearly anything else is possible. To create imagery and matte effects on the surface, techniques such as paint, sandblasting and even laser engraving can be made use of. The professional display of almost any logo, special inscription, or graphics can be applied to give you a high quality product without being expensive.
Because of their honored place in the home for many years to come, trophies should be at least somewhat decorative, and preferably suitable to the achievement. The versatility of crystal in this department makes it appropriate and beautiful, even in its simplest form.
Award ceremonies are only as special as the trophies they give. Special occasions with special trophies create extra-special memories. Whether it’s a corporate award or trophy, or a simple school sporting achievement award, the sentimental value behind a beautiful crystal trophy will ensure that it lives on for many years into the future.
The reward for an achievement should be something that shows worth and appreciation and recognizes special accomplishments. Crystal awards have that special something in their glossy shine and crystal clarity that really sets them apart, making them timeless and truly elegant.
A crystal award can be a unique way to show appreciation for work well done, to mark an achievement, or to extend congratulations on an anniversary.
Based on the nature of the event, as well as the personal tastes and preferences of its intended recipient, any one of a number of different styles may be suitable.
There are several different types of crystal that are used in creating awards. The most common is called optic, or optical, crystal. This type of crystal is known for its hardness and clarity, as well as for the fact that it is completely lead-free. Optic crystal uses pressure, and not lead oxide, during its manufacturing process to eliminate bubbles and other imperfections. Due to the process of pressurization involved in its manufacture, it is only available in sheets, and is not suitable to the production of glassware. It is generally used only to create solid form awards such as obelisks and engraved plaques.
By introducing special additives to the manufacturing process, optic crystal can be colored black or any other color. In this form, it is often used as the base for a sculpture or figurine.
Full lead crystal is what most people usually think of when the topic of crystal is brought up. Unlike optic crystal, it relies on the addition of lead oxide during its manufacture to produce its flawless clarity and hardness, as well as to give it weight. Because lead, and not pressure, is used in its manufacture, it does not need to be produced in sheet form. Instead, it is blown in the time-honored tradition by a team of skilled glass makers. This gives it a wider range of uses and more design flexibility than optic crystal.